I always thought AC current requires 2 wires to carry the current both ways just like DC. Recently I read a post on this sub saying neutral wires go to ground. What am I missing?

Question

I always thought AC current requires 2 wires to carry the current both ways just like DC. Recently I read a post on this sub saying neutral wires go to ground. What am I missing?

In: 19

Answer 1

In australia the neutral is connected to ground at the switchboard via an MEN link, and at the transformer by another MEN link.
If your supply Neutral is faulty on your installation, say from the pole to the building then the MEN link allows the return path to the star point on the transformer.

Yes your neutral is at the same potential as earth.